“Ideas only sink in deeply after they have been heard many times” John P. Kotter

Some time ago I was running a workshop and while the leader of the team was talking through her plans I was observing. What I saw in the team didn’t represent enthusiastic engagement....they were tuning out.

I interrupted and asked a question - “What’s the positive outcome of pursuing that plan?”

This caused this leader to explain the thinking behind the plan. She shared what had been so very obvious to her but had not been communicated. She shared her vision, including the impacts and consequences of action and inaction; to the team, their internal clients and external customers.

Immediately, the expressions and the body language of the team transformed! Suddenly they ‘got it’ - what was just a tactical plan they were required to execute had become a vision they could buy into and pursue.

Having a compelling vision and being able communicate that vision with impact are essential tools of leadership..... Read More...